Finally, Minnesota's reigning fighter of the year will return to action.

Brandon "The Worm" Bergeron has his next opponent lined up, and he'll be taking on a two-time WEC veteran.

Bergeron, who has been held out of action since his win over Mitch Jackson in September due to a series of injuries, will square off against WEC vet Clint Godfrey (11-3) during Vivid MMA's "Showdown at the Sheraton II" on Feb. 26 at the Bloomington Sheraton.

Godfrey had a two-fight run in the WEC. His most impressive performance came against nationally ranked Wagnney Fabiano. Godfrey lasted three rounds against Fabiano before dropping the unanimous decision. He went on to fight Michael McDonald, falling by submission due to an armbar in the first round. That came last November at WEC 52. McDonald's last loss came in 2004 against Lyoto Machida.

Godfrey, who is from South Dakota, bounced back last weekend with a win over Charlie DuBray (9-3).

Godfrey and Bergeron will meet at 145 pounds.

Bergeron trains at the Minnesota Martial Arts Academy and will bring a 10-3 record into the fight. He had a banner year in 2010, going 4-0 and taking out ranked foes in Jackson and WEC vet Courtney Buck. All four of Bergeron's 2010 wins came over fighters with winning records.

"We're hoping Bergeron will come out with more intensity than he's ever had," matchmaker/manager Jeremy Bjornberg said. "He did seem to tire in the third round of the fight with Jackson, and I thought he lost the third round because he was tired. If he doesn't tire, that's not a debatable decision. ... Godfrey is looking for tough fights. He jumped at this opportunity the day it was presented to him. It's the exact kind of fight he was looking for. He's more of a natural 135-pounder, but he's a guy who beat Rich Taylor. He's a tough kid."

Bjornberg also has two other big fights lined up for the Feb. 26 card.